Translation guide
Expresses the current moment or present period, often with a nuance of formality or temporariness. Common in announcements, business, and polite speech.
To state that something is happening or is the case at the present moment, without strong formality.
The most common and neutral way to say 'now' or 'at this time'. Works in both casual and polite contexts.
Are you busy at this time?
今は何もしていません。
I'm not doing anything at this time.
More formal than 今, often used in written or official contexts. Equivalent to 'currently' or 'at present'.
現在、空席はございません。
At this time, there are no vacant seats.
Polite and formal, often used in business settings, customer service, or announcements. Literally 'just now', but functions as 'at this time'.
ただいま電話に出ることができません。
At this time, we are unable to answer the phone.
To indicate a temporary state or situation that may change later.
Means 'at this point in time' or 'so far', implying the situation might change. Common in both speech and writing.
今のところ問題はありません。
At this time, there are no problems.
今のところ、変更の予定はない。
At this time, there are no plans to change.
Means 'for the time being' or 'for now', often used in business or formal contexts to describe temporary measures.
Similar to 当面, but slightly more casual. Means 'for the time being' or 'at the moment'.
To politely inform or request something in a formal setting, such as customer service or official statements.
Used at the beginning of formal announcements or apologies. Literally 'this time', but functions as 'at this time' in polite contexts.
この度はご迷惑をおかけして申し訳ございません。
At this time, we apologize for the inconvenience.
Means 'today', but used in formal speech to mean 'at this time' when referring to the current event or situation.
本日はお越しいただきありがとうございます。
At this time, thank you for coming.
To stress that something is happening right now, often with a sense of urgency or precision.
Means 'right now' or 'just at this moment'. Adds emphasis to the immediacy.
ちょうど今、着いたところです。
I arrived just at this time.
Literally 'this very moment', used for dramatic or emphatic effect.
今この瞬間、世界が変わろうとしている。
At this very time, the world is about to change.
Directly translating 'at this time' as この時に (kono toki ni) sounds unnatural in most contexts. Use 今 (ima) or 今のところ (ima no tokoro) instead.
今、何してるの？
What are you doing at this time?
今 (ima) is neutral and everyday. 現在 (genzai) is formal and often written. ただいま (tadaima) is very polite and used in service or announcements. Choose based on context and politeness level.
当面の間、営業時間を短縮します。
At this time, we will shorten business hours.
差し当たり、これで間に合います。
At this time, this will suffice.